Shawne Merriman Awkwardly Walks Off Set During ESPN Interview, Leaves Hosts Bewildered (Video)

When athletes and coaches agree to do interviews, especially on air, there’s sort of an unwritten rule that they stick around until the end of the question-and-answer. There’s always the option of subscribing to the Bill Belichick method of answering tough questions — either talking around the actual answer or just saying “no comment.” But former All-Pro linebacker Shawne Merriman took question evasion to a new level Monday.

During an appearance on ESPN2’s Highly Questionable on Monday, Merriman fielded questions from Dan Le Batard and Bomani Jones to highlight his charity, the Lights On Foundation, which helps fight homelessness. Merriman himself was homeless as a child after his family was the victim of two different house fires.

Le Batard and Jones’ line of questioning eventually turned to those two house fires, and things seemed to be going fine until Merriman walked off the set. Jones’ question, “How did it feel to come home and see your house on fire?” seemed to be the tipping point for Merriman, as he politely took out his earpiece and informed the hosts it was time for him to go.

Jones and Le Batard were left befuddled, exchanging confused glances after Merriman left.